A Bayswater North-based aluminium window and door manufacturer has been fined $70,000 after a worker lost four fingers while operating a saw at its factory.
Accent Management Services was sentenced last Thursday after pleading guilty to the single charge of failing to provide or maintain a safe working environment.
WorkSafe Executive Director of Health and Safety Narelle Beer said employers have a responsibility to ensure workers are appropriately trained and using machinery correctly.
“No one should have to suffer such awful injuries at work, there are simply no excuses,” Dr Beer said.
“Safety measures, such as pneumatic clamps in this case, are only effective if employers ensure their workers are properly trained and the equipment is actually being used as intended.”
In November 2020, the worker was using an electric mitre saw to cut aluminium by hand. After making a cut, the worker began lifting the saw with his other hand, resulting in the retractable guard moving fully back over the rotating blade.
The worker reached underneath the saw with his hand, making contact with the rotating blade and amputating four fingers.
He was taken to the hospital, where all but one of his amputated fingers were reattached.
The company was fined $70,000, without conviction, and ordered to pay $4,236 in costs.
A WorkSafe investigation found that although the saw was fitted with a pneumatic clamping system, to hold aluminium sheets and reduce the chances of bodily contact with the blade, it was common practice for workers to not use the clamps when making 90-degree cuts.
The Ringwood Magistrates Court heard it was reasonably practical for the company to provide a system of work that required workers to use the clamps and timber shims to secure the aluminium for cutting when using the saw, and for workers to be provided instruction and training on their use.
